City of Bathurst announces new Fire Chief

May 14th, 2019

The City of Bathurst is proud to announce the hiring of Marc Arseneault as the new Chief of the Bathurst Fire Department. Mr. Arseneault will be replacing Chief Donald Laffoley, who will be officially retiring on June 29th.

Arseneault previously served for 21 years in the Canadian Armed Forces, 17 of which as a firefighter. He worked in a variety of roles, namely: Airport and Shipboard Firefighter, Fire Inspector, Platoon Chief, Chief Fire Inspector, School Training Plan Manager and Senior School Instructor.

“We are fortunate to have found a successful candidate with such qualifications to assume the lead role within the Bathurst Fire Department. The skills and experience acquired by Mr. Arseneault will certainly bode well for us as we continually seek to improve the skillset and expertise of our Fire Crews. We already have a committed and devoted group within our Fire department, and his addition to the team will just bring us further along”, stated Mayor Paolo Fongemie.

“That said, we thank Chief Donald Laffoley for his tremendous contributions to the Fire Department throughout his career. Chief Laffoley began as a volunteer in the early eighties, working in various roles within the Department before becoming Fire Chief. His commitment to maintain an excellent operation, with highly trained and devoted personnel, is an achievement of which he can be proud. And we are proud and thankful to him for his service to the City of Bathurst”, continued Mayor Fongemie.

Mr. Arseneault will officially assume his new duties on Monday May 27th. With Chief Laffoley officially retiring on June 29th, this will allow for an effective transition period with both on duty.

“I am fortunate and proud to join the Bathurst Fire Department. I’m joining an experienced team of individuals who strives to ensure public safety the best way possible. The experience acquired throughout my military career have certainly prepared me for this new challenge in my life and I’m anxious to get started. I’m doubly fortunate to be back in Northern New Brunswick, where I was born. I thank the Selection Committee for allowing me this opportunity and will offer the best of myself in assuming the duties of Fire Chief”, said Arseneault.